RESIDENTS in villages near Dorchester have the opportunity to shape their community through the development of a neighbourhood plan.
The plans aim to give residents more control over their local area, when proposals for new homes, shops and offices in their town or village are considered.
The latest plan is being developed by Knightsford Parish Council for the communities of Tincleton, West Knighton, West Stafford and Woodsford.
Dorset Council has approved a request from the parish for the designation of a neighbourhood area, which is the first formal stage of preparing a plan.
Once the plan is written, it will be consulted on locally and submitted for independent examination. It will also be subject to a local referendum to make sure it has the support of villagers.